Application deadline: January 19, 2025.
Mason’s CINA Center (cina.gmu.edu) is seeking candidates for summer 2025 internships with DHS U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), National Targeting Center, Counter Network Division Sterling, VA.
This opportunity is open to students enrolled at George Mason University.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is calling on those who want to gain significant experience protecting American interests and securing our Nation. DHS Components work collectively to prevent terrorism; secure borders and our transportation systems; protect the President and other dignitaries; enforce and administer immigration laws; safeguard cyberspace; and ensure resilience to disasters. We achieve these vital missions through a diverse workforce spanning hundreds of occupations.
Working with CINA and the DHS sponsor, students will support homeland security professionals in the detection and prevention of terrorists and instruments of terror from entering the US, illuminating illicit actors and criminal networks and support staff in assignments that include:
- Analyzing and detecting illegal drugs and contraband, importations and exportations contrary to law to prevent them from entering and exiting the United States.
- Collaborating with partners engaged in countering criminal networks.
- Working towards the detection, illumination, disrupting and degradation of transnational criminal organizations and networks profiting from illicit weapons, currency and human smuggling.
Students will gain first-hand experience in the CBP work environment, learn about the mission and
responsibilities of various components and programs and be involved in professional projects and activities related to their academic studies.
This internship will be on-site in Sterling, Virginia using sensitive but unclassified data and open-source research with all requirements completed in 6-8 weeks. Interns will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement. For all selected candidates who meet the internship and academic requirements, Mason’s CINA Center will provide a scholarship or stipend to support their internship
efforts. Interns will begin work with DHS after successful completion of federal background checks and onboarding.
Requirements
- Enrollment in a full-time graduate or undergraduate program at George Mason University with good academic standing (GPA 3.0 or higher)
- Strong organizational/research skills, analytical ability, and data analysis
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens
Desired skills and background
- Pursuing a criminal justice, intelligence-related, business-related, or cyber-related degree, at least a rising junior. Preferred experience with cryptocurrency/financial analysis.
- Experience with open-source research and one or more data processing and analysis tools and software suites.
- A solid understanding of computer systems, networks, and operating systems.
- Knowledge of information and data analysis, statistical methodology, and data science, including data visualization.
- Prior experience working with government or industry is preferred.
Deadline: Apply by January 19, 2025
Schedule: Internship schedule will be arranged based on the student’s semester class schedule and needs of the hosting agency, however is estimated to range from 10-30 hours per week over the 6-8 week timeframe in the SUMMER 2025.
Application:Please apply through the link below with the following materials in PDF format:
- A cover letter (no more than 1 page) articulating how your skills and background will support success in the internship option selected.
- A current CV/resume including GPA, academic program info, and projected graduation date.
- A list of three references, including the name and contact information of a faculty advisor or instructor familiar with your work.